Ararad Ermize's itinerary for 5 days in Madeira Island

All details below are suggestions only, we can discuss in advance and change or alter the dates depending on our calendars and the weather forecast.

10th of March - Pick-up from the Airport. Please let me know your landing and departure times. We can also arrange flexible pick-up times for each day from the Cliff Bay hotel.

West coast/1st Day (11th or 12th of March) at around 12:00 o'clock.

Câmara de Lobos - little fishermen enchanting village where Winston Churchill used to spend time and paint.
Madalena do Mar - a picturesque village on the southwest coast of Madeira, renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and its mild, sunny climate ideal for banana cultivation.
Explore Madeira's enchanting Banana Route - a vibrant journey through lush, terraced banana plantations that plunge into the Atlantic. It leads along concrete paths, small levadas and a few stairs through banana plantations where you can often see locals at work.
Calheta - Inside this town you'll find a marina, lined with restaurants serving the catch of the day, and a modern art centre that will surprise you. The beach is actually two sheltered coves of golden sand, perfect for when you've had enough of Madeira's typical rocky coastline.
Suggested lunch in Calheta (Essência do Atlântico) or in Jardim do Mar (Joe's Bar).
Jardim do Mar (an idyllic and charming fishermen village).
Sunset at Miradouro do Fio (viewpoint of the highest lighthouse of Portugal, visible from 50 km).

North East/2nd Day (13th of March)

Viewpoint Curtado.
Viewpoint Rocha do Navio.
Santana visit the traditional thatch-and-lava stone buildings that were once common throughout the north-east of the island.
Suggested lunch: Quinta do Furão is a charming 5 hectares estate, with 3 hectares dedicated to organic vines, vegetables and herbs. The vineyard itself covers 2 hectares and boasts a wide range of grape varieties, including Arnsburger, Touriga Nacional, Verdelho and Tinta Roriz. With a range of dishes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown on the estate's extensive estate, my recommendations are: the succulent roast lamb, the freshly caught seafood, or the Bife à Caldeirão Verde filled with Roquefort cheese dish. The vegetarian options are also delicious and my favorite is the Hamburger with Portobello mushrooms.
São Jorje wild pebble beach and ruins.
Moinho a agua in Achadinha village - An old watermill from 17th century.
Viewpoint Beira da Quinta (facing Arco de São Jorje village).
Arco de São Jorje.
Viewpoint São Cristovão (Boaventura).
Viewpoint Quebradas in Ponta Delgada village.

East coast/3rd Day (15th of March)

Ribeiro Frio road trip through the middle of the island.
Viewpoint Guindaste (view over the north coast of Madeira). It’s an amazing place that offers some mesmerizing views of the ocean and the massive cliffs along Madeira’s northeastern coast.
Fortress of Faial viewpoint
Town of Porto da Cruz. We can visit Engenhos do Norte, one of the few surviving rum distilleries of the island and the only one still driven by steam.
Suggested lunch at A Pipa. This restaurant is a delightful spot for those seeking authentic Madeiran cuisine. This family-run restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Seafood lovers will be delighted with dishes such as lapas (limpets) served sizzling with garlic and butter, and perfectly grilled fish dishes.
Viewpoint Portela
Viewpoint Ponta do Rosto (view of Ponta de São Lorenco dragon tail).
Viewpoint Pico do Facho
Machico (a little medieval town)
Viewpoint do Cristo Rei (the 1st statue of Jesus Christ, before Brasil and Lisbon).

4th Day (16th of March)

Market in Santo da Serra is a local Sunday morning tradition and the best local food market in Madeira. It offers: Fresh local produce from nearby farms, Madeiran flowers and plants, Homemade breads and cakes, Local honey, Traditional crafts, Fresh eggs and dairy products. Food lovers will be in heaven as you'll find stalls selling traditional Madeiran delicacies like bolo do caco (a type of flatbread), espetada (grilled meat skewers), and poncha (a traditional alcoholic drink made from sugarcane brandy, honey, and lemon juice). Be sure to try the freshly made pastries and sweets, such as honey cake and queijadas (cheese tarts).
The market offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Madeiran culture. Unlike the more touristy areas of the island, Santo da Serra retains its traditional charm, and the market is a reflection of this. It’s a chance to see how the locals live, what they eat, and how they interact with one another.
Lunch: My best recommendation is to try the famous smoked beef ribs at Barraca Da Conceição; you won't regret it, and you might even cancel your flight back home to have another chance to enjoy this simple deliciousness.
Santo da Serra park - leisure walk.
Savor a dessert and a coffee with a view at Santo da Serra Golf - a mountain paradise with fairways. Sitting at 700 m above sea level, the air is crisp and clear up here. The course is famous for hosting the Madeira Islands Open, and when you play here, you'll understand why.

North West/5th Day (18th of March)

Seixal Beach, also known as the Hawaii of Europe, it is a stunning natural gem with beautiful volcanic sand beach, clear waters and astonishing cliffs. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and the dark volcanic pebbles contrast beautifully with the crystal-clear waters.
A leisurely walk in Fanal forest which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.
Porto Moniz - The main attraction are the unique lava pools filled with salty, warm sea water for safe bathing in an epic setting. These pools are formed from volcanic rock that has been naturally eroded by the sea. The water in the pools is very clear and is regularly refreshed by the tides.
Achada da Cruz where one of the steepest cable cars in the world will transport us to o a world where time stands still...This cable car transports both local farmers and visitors from 450 m above sea level down a 98% incline to an uninhabited farming village. The experience itself is an exhilarating journey from the rugged coastal cliffs to the picturesque village below.

20th of March - Transfer to the Airport.

The price for all 5 days and airport pickup & drop off is 634,40 EUR.
Notes:
Full day services count as 8 hours.
Overtime: 20.00 EUR per hour. VAT included.
For services between 22:00 and 06:59, a night surcharge of 25% will apply.
*Lunch, snacks and beverages are not included.

Other ideas for Full day itineraries.

Full day activities.

Caminho Florestal das Serras de Setor Antonio - a road in the central of the island renowned for its unique and diverse flora and vegetation, offering a rich experience of the wild and scenic heart of Madeira.
Miradouro do Paredão - overlooking breathtaking views towards Pico Grande, the 6th highest peak of Madeira and Nun's Valley, only this one is less touristy and, in my opinion, even more beautiful.
Miradouro Eira do Serrado - overlooking the Nun's Valley.
Curral das Freiras (Nun's Valley) - a village surrounded by the mountain peaks; one of the few places on the island that it is not visible from the sea.
Pico dos Barcelos - offers a 360° view of the beautiful city of Funchal.

Full day activities.

Ponta de Sao Lorenco trail - This unique trail takes you on a scenic 3 km (6 km both ways) hike through breathtaking landscapes. The feet is 3 euros /person and it can be paid online.
Boat trip on the way back with Madeira Sea Emotions
Achada do Teixeira - Mountain Spot Café sits on the top of the mountain and it's one of my favorite spots in Madeira island. Perfect for you to enjoy a relaxed afternoon or to hike to Pico Ruivo (it is also the easiest and quickest way; 6-kilometer round-trip). The route isn’t too steep with just 260 meters of incline for the whole hike and the path is well maintained.

Suggestions for dinner (require booking a table in advance)

Sabor a fado restaurant At Travessa das Torres nº10, you'll discover a cosy place that you simply can't miss! Sabor a Fado is a restaurant where heart-warming music meets delicious Madeiran cuisine. This family-run fado house combines the soulful music of traditional Portuguese music with the delicious flavours of local gastronomy. From the moment you walk through the doors, you'll be greeted by the warm smiles of the Sousa family, who will be your perfect hosts for the evening. They don't just serve your table, they create an experience, sharing stories through songs and making you feel like part of their extended family.

A Vista - Savor the Flavors and Sights of Funchal. If you're looking for a dining experience that captures both the flavour and beauty of Madeira, A Vista in Funchal is the place to be. This restaurant offers tasty dishes paired with killer views that make every meal unforgettable. Overlooking the sparkling Atlantic and the charming rooftops of Funchal, A Vista is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. The menu is a creative blend of traditional Madeiran flavours with a modern twist.

Akua - Chef Júlio Pereira's Akua restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience that will delight all lovers of seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. At Akua, the culinary magic of the aquatic world takes centre stage, offering a sensory journey from the sea to the table. Each dish is meticulously crafted, showcasing both bold flavours and artistic presentation.

Carvão Grill House is a dining experience you don't want to miss. The service is excellent and the food is absolutely incredible. Even if you don't usually finish your meals, you'll want to savour every bite here! The prices are quite reasonable, making it a must visit during your stay in Madeira. You won't be disappointed! We enjoyed the Wagyu beef which is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour. Every bite was melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Abrigo do Pastor - Just 15 kilometres from Funchal, Abrigo do Pastor is a charming spot for food lovers and explorers alike. This cosy, wood-panelled restaurant offers a welcoming retreat where you can enjoy the authentic flavours of the island. From hearty meat dishes to fresh seafood, the menu showcases the best of Madeiran cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. With the peaceful sounds of nature all around you, dining at Abrigo do Pastor is both an escape and a treat. It's the perfect place to enjoy great food, soak up the forest atmosphere and experience the warm hospitality for which Madeira is renowned.

Adega do Pomar This charming restaurant embodies the spirit of Madeira, offering a dining experience that's both rustic and refreshingly authentic. Start your culinary journey with a plate of grilled lapas (limpets) or indulge in Bolo do Caco, a garlic bread that's as addictive as it is traditional. For the main event, Mendinha takes the central stage. Mendinha is a stew made from veal ribs slowly cooked the oven for at least 4-5 hours until tender, absorbing a rich blend of local ingredients. These include garlic, onions and a bouquet of fragrant herbs such as bay leaves and oregano, which add layers of aromatic complexity to the dish. A splash of Madeira wine adds a touch of sophistication, giving the sauce a unique hint of sweetness. Mendinha is typically served with rustic accompaniments such as crusty bread or boiled potatoes, which help to soak up the inviting sauce. It's a popular choice for festive occasions and family gatherings.

Santo António - Situated in the picturesque hills of the Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, Santo Antonio is a popular culinary destination offering an authentic taste of Madeira. It is particularly famous for its exceptional espetada - many people, both locals and tourists, say it's the best on the island (I also love the espetada at O Polar).

Experience local life

A Venda do Andre (bar) - Located in Campanário, A Venda do André is a no-frills, down-to-earth bar where you can experience the local spirit of Madeira. This unassuming place is a favourite with the locals and offers a real slice of village life.

It’s an authentic example of the old traditional tasca - the term refers to a small, casual tavern or pub. These establishments are often family-run and offer a cozy, informal atmosphere where people can gather to enjoy simple things. Tascas are known for serving traditional, home-style Portuguese food, making them popular spots for locals and tourists alike who wish to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine and culture. They are great places to try local dishes, have a conversation with the owners, and get a genuine feel for the local lifestyle.

The bar serves a selection of local beers, affordable wines and, of course, the classic Madeiran poncha. It's the perfect place to pop in for a quick drink and catch up on the latest neighbourhood news. This bar offers a true taste of everyday life in Madeira.